THE Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection expressed its
deep dismay regarding the recent incident involving a member of the House of
Representatives, AGAP Party List Representative Nicanor Briones, who was
caught watching a cockfight video on his cellphone during the Opening Session of
the 20th Congress on July 28, 2025.
A video widely circulated online showed a congressman watching a
cockfight during the session. Although the footage, taken from behind, initially
made it difficult to identify the individual, Congressman Briones later admitted
that he was the person in the viral clip. He clarified, however, that he was not
participating in online sabong (e-sabong) but merely viewing a video of a
cockfight sent by his nephew.
Despite this clarification, LCSP believes the act itself—watching cockfight
content during an official congressional session—reflects inappropriate conduct
unbecoming of a public official. This is especially troubling as the session in
question involved the election of a new House Speaker and preceded the
President’s State of the Nation Address. At such a formal and crucial moment in
the national legislature, all members are expected to observe the highest standards
of decorum.
The importance of maintaining public trust and respect for democratic
institutions cannot be overstated. Viewing such content during session time,
regardless of whether it is related to e-sabong, demonstrates a lapse in judgment
and shows disregard for the solemnity of the legislative process.
LCSP is reminded of a recent incident in which a Cavite-bound bus driver
had his license suspended for 90 days by the Land Transportation Office for
accessing an online gambling app while driving. The parallels between these cases
are undeniable. If such conduct warranted disciplinary action for a public
transport drivers due to the dangers it posed to commuters, then a similar, if not
higher, standard must apply to lawmakers entrusted with the public’s confidence.
Accordingly, LCSP calls on the House Committee on Ethics and Privileges
to investigate this matter thoroughly and impose the appropriate disciplinary
measures against Congressman Briones. Accountability must be upheld at all
levels of government, and public officials must be reminded that they are held to
a higher standard—especially during official proceedings that shape the future of
our nation.
We stand with the Filipino people in calling for ethics, accountability, and
integrity in public service.
Atty. Albert N. Sadili
Spokesperson – Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection (LCSP)
